Friday, August 24, 2007
Open a ebay Store and save listing fees!
Open a ebay store today and pay only 5 cents a listing for products under $25.00 and 10 cents for anything over that amount for 30 days of exposure!
Tuesday, August 21, 2007
Microsoft Update causes Skype 2 day outage
Skype's two day outage was apparently caused by a recent Microsoft update that required computer's to reboot after install. The worldwide outage, which began on Thursday and ended on Saturday, left millions of Skype users unable to log on to make phone calls or to send any instant messages.
Ooopps...Sorry
Ooopps...Sorry
Friday, August 17, 2007
Microsoft's Small Business Start Up Center
Looking to start your own business? Don't know where to start? Well, I have found the perfect resource for you! Micrsoft's startup center covers just about everything from A-Z. This special site covers everything you need to get your business up and running, including special offers designed for new businesses. Make sure you at least book mark this site for later reading as it will save you a ton of research and alot of great freebies are available for instant download!
http://www.microsoft.com/smallbusiness/startup-toolkit/
See ya soon
Computer Gal
http://www.microsoft.com/smallbusiness/startup-toolkit/
See ya soon
Computer Gal
Wednesday, August 15, 2007
Computer Gal's Partners up with NextdayPC
Great News!
Computer Gal's has partnered up with Nextday PC!! Nextday has over 400,000 products listed in their catalog and now so does Computer Gal!!!
Check out our new listings at
www.nextdaypc.com/computer-gals
I am truly excited about this partnership and there is more in the works. Computer Gal's has also signed up as a Microsoft Partner and I will write more about it in a couple days, but for now check out our new products at Nextday.
View catalog here
Computer Gal's has partnered up with Nextday PC!! Nextday has over 400,000 products listed in their catalog and now so does Computer Gal!!!
Check out our new listings at
www.nextdaypc.com/computer-gals
I am truly excited about this partnership and there is more in the works. Computer Gal's has also signed up as a Microsoft Partner and I will write more about it in a couple days, but for now check out our new products at Nextday.
View catalog here
Wednesday, June 27, 2007
Evaluate the Windows Server 2008
Download or order the beta software & you're automatically registered to access valuable beta resources assembled in one convenient Beta Central location.
It is a good idea to review Windows Server 2008 system requirements and compare editions before you download. Actual requirements and product functionality may vary based on your system configuration. The link to download is here
http://www.microsoft.com/technet/prodtechnol/beta/lhs/default.mspx
It is a good idea to review Windows Server 2008 system requirements and compare editions before you download. Actual requirements and product functionality may vary based on your system configuration. The link to download is here
http://www.microsoft.com/technet/prodtechnol/beta/lhs/default.mspx
Wednesday, March 7, 2007
Slax Linux Live Boot CD, Very Pretty~
Slax is one of the prettiest desktop replacement OS'es available. It was requires very little operating power. Slax runs on a 486, with as little as 32MB ram. You don't even need a hard drive. Got an old computer around, or one that won't boot? If you do, Slax is for you! You can read about Slax here www.slax.org
Or check out Computer Gal's listing on ebay here
Or check out Computer Gal's listing on ebay here
Daylight Savings Time Early this year, Patch Your PC Now
In case you haven't heard, daylight savings is early this year and starts on March 11, 2007. Remember the Y2k scare? Well it is not that bad, but your systems needed to be updated so everything will go smooth. Here is what you need to do.
One of the fist patches that should be applied is the Microsoft patches for Windows XP, and for Windows Server 2003. The patch for Windows XP can be downloaded here (the version for 64bit XP is here), and the Windows Server 2003 patch can be downloaded here (the version for X64bit server is here and the version for Itanium 2003 systems is here).
These are standard Microsoft patches that can fully fit in with your standard patching methodology. It can be deployed via WSUS, or many other patch distribution packages. It can also be installed by an administrator without the need for a reboot, which is very useful in shops where patches are applied manually. You will want to check to make sure this patch (KB931836) is set for distribution, as it is not listed as a critical update. If you only typically push or install critical updates then you may need to manually add this patch to your systems. It should also be noted that the patch for Windows XP requires XP SP2 to be installed, if you have not already done so.
If you are still running Windows 2000 you will have to do a bit more work for the time change. Microsoft has released KB article 914387 which outlines the process you must go to for the change. There are two methods by which you can change the time zone for Windows 2000 (Professional and Server). The first is to download the TZEdit tool from Microsoft. Once installed, you can run this tool (it installs by default to c:\Program Files\TZEdit\) to manually create and change your time zones. This method will require you to manually change every computer. While this is not a major task if you only have a few Windows 2000, it can be quite daunting if you have a large number of systems to update.
The second method provided by Microsoft for updating Windows 2000 is a combination of a registry edit and a VBS script. These are both available here, though you must copy the text for each of them and save them locally with the proper file extensions (.reg and .vbs respectively). You must then import the registry settings change (by double clicking the .reg file you created), then run the vbs script to perform the update. This process can easily be automated.
Ok, you should be all set!
Computer Gal
One of the fist patches that should be applied is the Microsoft patches for Windows XP, and for Windows Server 2003. The patch for Windows XP can be downloaded here (the version for 64bit XP is here), and the Windows Server 2003 patch can be downloaded here (the version for X64bit server is here and the version for Itanium 2003 systems is here).
These are standard Microsoft patches that can fully fit in with your standard patching methodology. It can be deployed via WSUS, or many other patch distribution packages. It can also be installed by an administrator without the need for a reboot, which is very useful in shops where patches are applied manually. You will want to check to make sure this patch (KB931836) is set for distribution, as it is not listed as a critical update. If you only typically push or install critical updates then you may need to manually add this patch to your systems. It should also be noted that the patch for Windows XP requires XP SP2 to be installed, if you have not already done so.
If you are still running Windows 2000 you will have to do a bit more work for the time change. Microsoft has released KB article 914387 which outlines the process you must go to for the change. There are two methods by which you can change the time zone for Windows 2000 (Professional and Server). The first is to download the TZEdit tool from Microsoft. Once installed, you can run this tool (it installs by default to c:\Program Files\TZEdit\) to manually create and change your time zones. This method will require you to manually change every computer. While this is not a major task if you only have a few Windows 2000, it can be quite daunting if you have a large number of systems to update.
The second method provided by Microsoft for updating Windows 2000 is a combination of a registry edit and a VBS script. These are both available here, though you must copy the text for each of them and save them locally with the proper file extensions (.reg and .vbs respectively). You must then import the registry settings change (by double clicking the .reg file you created), then run the vbs script to perform the update. This process can easily be automated.
Ok, you should be all set!
Computer Gal
Wednesday, February 28, 2007
Ubuntu Live Boot CD
Ubuntu live boot CD is totally cool. All you do to experience this really cool Linux OS is reboot your computer with the cd (bios must be set to read cd first) and you are now surfing the web, creating word processing documents and more, all off the cd. These cd's are great when your computer is having a problem booting to Windows as well. Just insert the cd, reboot, and you are back in business.
Ubuntu offers you a complete Linux-based operating system, including all the major applications you need to play and work. With a strong focus on a desktop that Just Works, Ubuntu is a great choice for home or the office. The base system and all included software is free, and support is available from the community or by professional support providers.
When you start the system for the first time you are greeted by a desktop that is unusually clean and tidy. No desktop icons by default! Even the recycling bin has been moved down to the taskbar. The default theme is designed to be easy on the eye. But Linux is inherently flexible; you can customise the look and behaviour of the desktop in a range of ways, from simply changing the default theme to selecting a different desktop environment altogether.
Want to try it? You have a few choices, you can download it, or purchase it for a small fee.
Where can you download it?
If you don't have broadband, you can purchase it from us or another vendor.
Category- Live Boot CD
Have fun!
Sunday, February 25, 2007
Vista Upgrade without XP or 2000 Installed is Possible
Apparently anyone can use Windows Vista upgrade!
Microsoft’s licensing terms and antipiracy measures for Windows started getting more complicated after it launched Windows Genuine Advantage two years ago, much to the chagrin of confused customers. But with Vista, Microsoft seems to have confused itself, creating a loophole for customers with a do-it-yourself outlook to save as much as $100.00 or so.
Microsoft has confirmed reports circulating on the internet that anyone can buy and install an upgrade version of Vista, even on a computer without Windows XP or 2000 already on it.
Here's how the ‘clean install’ trick works:
-Boot with the Windows Vista upgrade DVD and begin the full installation process.-Do not enter the product key when prompted, but continue on.-Choose to do a clean install of Vista, that is, fully wiping your hard drive.-After you're done, boot into the still-unactivated copy of Vista.-Run Windows Vista setup again, from inside Vista.-Select upgrade, and enter your upgrade key.-Install Vista a second time.
Essentially, Vista is fooled into upgrading itself, thus allowing customers to avoid the need to have a prior copy of Windows XP or 2000 installed on that computer. While time-consuming because of the double installation, advocates say this workaround not only allows users to do a fresh install of Vista, which they say will run more reliably, but can save some customers money. The amount depends on which flavour of Vista a customer gets.
A Microsoft spokesperson said the company is "well aware of the workaround”, which they added "violates the terms of use agreed to when they purchased the upgrade version of Windows Vista. As such, we believe only a very small percentage of people will take the time to implement this workaround, and we encourage all customers to follow our official guidelines for upgrading to Windows Vista, which can be found at www.WindowsVista.com, instead."
Microsoft is right: for people, the workaround will prove to be irrelevant. Why? Because most larger corporations buy Vista in volume licences, which are usually discounted off the list price. For consumers and small businesses, the vast majority will get Vista pre-installed when they buy a new PC. Buying a new PC without an operating system on it and then installing an upgrade version of Vista might actually cost more than buying a new Vista PC because of the low price Microsoft charges OEMs to pre-install Vista, along with other discounts that it offers.
Indeed, the types of person most likely to benefit from this workaround are power users and hobbyists who own multiple computers running Windows as well as Linux and Mac OS X. Such users may argue that they are such good customers of Microsoft that they should be allowed to save a little bit of money when Microsoft makes a mistake, such as when a retailer is forced to honour an incorrectly price.
But Microsoft remains officially adamant. The spokeswoman noted that customers buying and installing an upgrade version of Vista onto one PC also forfeit the right to use XP on another PC, unless they own more than one full retail copy of XP.
"This is part of the end user license agreement the customer consents to by purchasing a retail upgrade version. We believe it strikes a fair balance for our customers, since upgrade versions allow them to purchase Windows Vista at significantly reduced prices," said the spokesperson. Only customers who pay for full retail versions of Vista "maintain the right to install their previous versions of Windows”
Well there you have it folks........
source:http://www.pcadvisor.co.uk/news/index.cfm?newsid=8512
Microsoft’s licensing terms and antipiracy measures for Windows started getting more complicated after it launched Windows Genuine Advantage two years ago, much to the chagrin of confused customers. But with Vista, Microsoft seems to have confused itself, creating a loophole for customers with a do-it-yourself outlook to save as much as $100.00 or so.
Microsoft has confirmed reports circulating on the internet that anyone can buy and install an upgrade version of Vista, even on a computer without Windows XP or 2000 already on it.
Here's how the ‘clean install’ trick works:
-Boot with the Windows Vista upgrade DVD and begin the full installation process.-Do not enter the product key when prompted, but continue on.-Choose to do a clean install of Vista, that is, fully wiping your hard drive.-After you're done, boot into the still-unactivated copy of Vista.-Run Windows Vista setup again, from inside Vista.-Select upgrade, and enter your upgrade key.-Install Vista a second time.
Essentially, Vista is fooled into upgrading itself, thus allowing customers to avoid the need to have a prior copy of Windows XP or 2000 installed on that computer. While time-consuming because of the double installation, advocates say this workaround not only allows users to do a fresh install of Vista, which they say will run more reliably, but can save some customers money. The amount depends on which flavour of Vista a customer gets.
A Microsoft spokesperson said the company is "well aware of the workaround”, which they added "violates the terms of use agreed to when they purchased the upgrade version of Windows Vista. As such, we believe only a very small percentage of people will take the time to implement this workaround, and we encourage all customers to follow our official guidelines for upgrading to Windows Vista, which can be found at www.WindowsVista.com, instead."
Microsoft is right: for people, the workaround will prove to be irrelevant. Why? Because most larger corporations buy Vista in volume licences, which are usually discounted off the list price. For consumers and small businesses, the vast majority will get Vista pre-installed when they buy a new PC. Buying a new PC without an operating system on it and then installing an upgrade version of Vista might actually cost more than buying a new Vista PC because of the low price Microsoft charges OEMs to pre-install Vista, along with other discounts that it offers.
Indeed, the types of person most likely to benefit from this workaround are power users and hobbyists who own multiple computers running Windows as well as Linux and Mac OS X. Such users may argue that they are such good customers of Microsoft that they should be allowed to save a little bit of money when Microsoft makes a mistake, such as when a retailer is forced to honour an incorrectly price.
But Microsoft remains officially adamant. The spokeswoman noted that customers buying and installing an upgrade version of Vista onto one PC also forfeit the right to use XP on another PC, unless they own more than one full retail copy of XP.
"This is part of the end user license agreement the customer consents to by purchasing a retail upgrade version. We believe it strikes a fair balance for our customers, since upgrade versions allow them to purchase Windows Vista at significantly reduced prices," said the spokesperson. Only customers who pay for full retail versions of Vista "maintain the right to install their previous versions of Windows”
Well there you have it folks........
source:http://www.pcadvisor.co.uk/news/index.cfm?newsid=8512
Sunday, February 18, 2007
OpenSource is the Way to GO!
OpenSource technology is really cool. OpenSource is free via download, and also may be obtained for a small fee for someone to download it for you. Computer Gal's carries a pretty large assortment of opensource software for the people still on dial-up that can't download the large files. For those of you that don't know what opensource is, it is software created by programmers all over the globe to be distributed for free. For example open office is pretty close to Microsoft Office, yet it is free. These programmers all think software prices are just to hefty, so they get together, add code, and ideas to come up with some pretty cool alternatives to the big guys. There is also some pretty neat stuff that the big guys have not even thought of yet that has been released.
Some of my favorites are "Live Boot CD's". These are really cool! You take just about any computer with or without a hard drive and boot to the cd, which has a operating system interface. It appears as though you are working on an installed OS, but you are on the cd. You see a desktop, my programs, and all the other normal stuff, but it is all memory. You can surf the web, save files to another cd, usb, floppy or the hard disk if available. You can even retrieve files on your hard drive, if normally unbootable!
I will be covering several downloads that are available over the next few weeks, so make sure you check back, so you don't miss anything :)
See ya later gator...
Computer Gal
Some of my favorites are "Live Boot CD's". These are really cool! You take just about any computer with or without a hard drive and boot to the cd, which has a operating system interface. It appears as though you are working on an installed OS, but you are on the cd. You see a desktop, my programs, and all the other normal stuff, but it is all memory. You can surf the web, save files to another cd, usb, floppy or the hard disk if available. You can even retrieve files on your hard drive, if normally unbootable!
I will be covering several downloads that are available over the next few weeks, so make sure you check back, so you don't miss anything :)
See ya later gator...
Computer Gal
Wednesday, February 14, 2007
Friday, February 9, 2007
Web Programming and Design Help
Need help with your web site, well Computer Gal is gonna hook you up. Try the following sites for some really good tips and lots of help. First check out Full Web Building Tutorials - All Free at http://www.w3schools.com/.
Then try http://www.devguru.com/
http://www.webmonkey.com/
Bravenet has some really cool addon's for your site as well, check them out here www.bravenet.com
Good luck and have fun!
Then try http://www.devguru.com/
http://www.webmonkey.com/
Bravenet has some really cool addon's for your site as well, check them out here www.bravenet.com
Good luck and have fun!
What Do You Think of American Idol Contestants?
Have you been watching American Idol? You know, it worries me some....Why, well imagine watching the show and thinking all Americans are, well, how do I put this....CRAZY! I mean, come on, some of these people are something else. Some one once told me that we are all just a bunch of muts now. You know how you have your pure breed dogs and when you mix breed them, they get kinda stupid, well, maybe we are a bunch of mix breed muts now...I don't know how that would have been determined, not counting race or religion, but who knows, maybe we should take IQ tests before we mate.......I think I was alot smarter than my ex-husband, that should have been illegal! That would have saved me some grief with him......Thank goodness, my children take after me and they were saved, but according to American Idol, not all have been. LOL.......
Oh well, I couldn't resist..............
Oh well, I couldn't resist..............
Wednesday, January 31, 2007
Windows Vista is Here!
Well, Windows Vista is on the shelves. There was an article in my local paper Tampa Tribune regarding the official release, and there appears to be no big motivation for people to rush out and buy a new operating system.
Vista has been more than five years in the making and ranges in price between $100.00-$400.00 depending on the version and if you are upgrading from XP.
The official site is located at www.windowsvista.com
Vista requires quite a bit of power, so if you do decide to purchase make sure you run the upgrade advisor found at the above link, to make sure you pc can handle the new OS.
If you decide you want to purchase Vista, you can even download the OS for a quick install.
Here are the posted minimum requirements for Vista Ultimate.
System Requirements
Manufacturer/Publisher Name
Microsoft
Operating System
Windows Vista
Minimum Processor Speed
1 GHz processor
Memory Required
1 GB of system memory
HardDisk Required
40GB hard drive with at least 15GB of available space
Display
Support for DirectX 9 graphics with:
• WDDM Driver
• 128 MB of graphics memory (minimum)
• Pixel Shader 2.0 in hardware
• 32 bits per pixel
I think it will be awhile before Vista becomes the most common OS, as XP seems to work just fine.
Vista has been more than five years in the making and ranges in price between $100.00-$400.00 depending on the version and if you are upgrading from XP.
The official site is located at www.windowsvista.com
Vista requires quite a bit of power, so if you do decide to purchase make sure you run the upgrade advisor found at the above link, to make sure you pc can handle the new OS.
If you decide you want to purchase Vista, you can even download the OS for a quick install.
Here are the posted minimum requirements for Vista Ultimate.
System Requirements
Manufacturer/Publisher Name
Microsoft
Operating System
Windows Vista
Minimum Processor Speed
1 GHz processor
Memory Required
1 GB of system memory
HardDisk Required
40GB hard drive with at least 15GB of available space
Display
Support for DirectX 9 graphics with:
• WDDM Driver
• 128 MB of graphics memory (minimum)
• Pixel Shader 2.0 in hardware
• 32 bits per pixel
I think it will be awhile before Vista becomes the most common OS, as XP seems to work just fine.
Monday, January 29, 2007
My Space??? Ok, you talked me into it!
Ok, my kids finally talked me into setting up a myspace.
Check it out!
http://www.myspace.com/computer_gal
Check it out!
http://www.myspace.com/computer_gal
Tuesday, January 23, 2007
Want to be a Computer Geek? Go to MIT for Free
Yes that's right folks. You heard it from Computer Gal. You can go to MIT for free!
The opencourseware (OCW) movement allows anyone with internet to access it's courses for free. OCW provides free access to course materials such as syllabi, video or audio lectures, notes, homework assignments, illustrations and so on. MIT's site is www.mit.edu. To find out more about OCW's program www.ocwconsortium.org
Now if you can attend tradional college that is great, but if not and still desire the knowledge, well here you go.....................
The opencourseware (OCW) movement allows anyone with internet to access it's courses for free. OCW provides free access to course materials such as syllabi, video or audio lectures, notes, homework assignments, illustrations and so on. MIT's site is www.mit.edu. To find out more about OCW's program www.ocwconsortium.org
Now if you can attend tradional college that is great, but if not and still desire the knowledge, well here you go.....................
Microsoft Office Accounting FREE
Hey folks incase you haven't heard, a slim down version of Microsoft's Accounting is available for free via downlload
via this link
http://www.ideawins.com/
Check it out, it's FREE
See Ya
via this link
http://www.ideawins.com/
Check it out, it's FREE
See Ya
Thursday, January 18, 2007
Lost ABC's Series
I have been watching the series LOST on dvd the past month. I really do like it and have a big crush on bad boy Sawyer. Why is that, that the girls always like the bad boys? That is one habit I would like to break (after Sawyer that is) !!!!!!!!!
Well you can watch the last few episodes on the web that are not on DVD yet here
http://abc.go.com/primetime/lost/index
For you followers make sure you mark your calendar, as it starts back up on Feb 7th.
Well you can watch the last few episodes on the web that are not on DVD yet here
http://abc.go.com/primetime/lost/index
For you followers make sure you mark your calendar, as it starts back up on Feb 7th.
WooHoo's Banana Phone~What a Laugh!!!!!!!!!
This guy is laughing all the way to the bank! What a brilliant man. I have been watching his latest ebay auction located here
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&ih=010&sspagename=STRK%3AMEWA%3AIT&viewitem=&item=200066612852&rd=1&rd=1
From what I understand is if you win one of his mystery auctions, you receive back or close to what you paid in, in cash and gifts. It is all about advertising for his web site.
I also found this really cute video on youtube created for the banana phone song.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dsBTo5LExr0
I'm warning you though, if you listen to this song, it gets stuck in your head. People look at you funny and say "What in the world are you singing"........hilarious!
Hey WooHoo, I love YOU!!
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&ih=010&sspagename=STRK%3AMEWA%3AIT&viewitem=&item=200066612852&rd=1&rd=1
From what I understand is if you win one of his mystery auctions, you receive back or close to what you paid in, in cash and gifts. It is all about advertising for his web site.
I also found this really cute video on youtube created for the banana phone song.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dsBTo5LExr0
I'm warning you though, if you listen to this song, it gets stuck in your head. People look at you funny and say "What in the world are you singing"........hilarious!
Hey WooHoo, I love YOU!!
Thursday, January 11, 2007
Cool way to search ebay's auctions, like 1999
For those of you that remember how ebay was back in 1999 a few of ebay's employees created a really cool site that pulls ebay's listings.
It is really neat, the developers have pulled the listing feeds for just auction format, so you can browse or search for those great .99 cent auction steals.
Check it out here
http://www.likeits1999.com/
It is really neat, the developers have pulled the listing feeds for just auction format, so you can browse or search for those great .99 cent auction steals.
Check it out here
http://www.likeits1999.com/
ebay PowerSeller Certificate and Benefits!!
Well, I have been a powerseller for quite sometime and was very surprised yesterday when my certificate finally came in the mail.
It is funny because my kids were standing there when I opened it and they were so happy for me. They were like look Mom got a certificate and started clapping.
I love my KIDS!
It is pretty easy to become a powerseller really. All you have to do is maintain a good feedback rating and sell at least $1,000 a month worth of merchandise.
There are some benefits as well. The number 1 is your kids are excited and will clap for you
You also have access to the powerseller discussion board, which is a real plus, a lot of pros are on there giving some great tips.
ebay has a powerseller prescription discount card, merchandise, access to listings for wholesale lots, logos and more.
Once you are a powerseller all you do is click on the little logo next to your name and you are directed to the portal and from there you can access all your benefits.
You can read more about ebay's powerseller program here
http://pages.ebay.com/services/buyandsell/powerseller/criteria.html
Tuesday, January 9, 2007
Hundreds of Items to List
Good Morning,
I have hundreds of items to list in my ebay store and other venues that I have got to get listed so I can sell them. That is my New Years Resolution! Since making that resolution, I have listed about ten :)
Do you ever wonder how you can get everything done? That is my biggest problem. I just can't seem to do everything that I need or want to do.
It doesn't help that it just take so long to create a listing as well. I don't know how some people list hundreds of auctions a week. They must have no distractions what so ever, and work like robots.
So I have decided to put it in black and white, that I Computer Gal will list at least 20 listings a week for the next month!
Cross your fingers...................................
Ok, I guess I better get back to work, so I can accomplish that goal :0)
Remember if you are looking for something, ask me, I may have that rare old game that you have been looking for, or that old software your database is saved in.
Till next time.......................
Computer Gal
I have hundreds of items to list in my ebay store and other venues that I have got to get listed so I can sell them. That is my New Years Resolution! Since making that resolution, I have listed about ten :)
Do you ever wonder how you can get everything done? That is my biggest problem. I just can't seem to do everything that I need or want to do.
It doesn't help that it just take so long to create a listing as well. I don't know how some people list hundreds of auctions a week. They must have no distractions what so ever, and work like robots.
So I have decided to put it in black and white, that I Computer Gal will list at least 20 listings a week for the next month!
Cross your fingers...................................
Ok, I guess I better get back to work, so I can accomplish that goal :0)
Remember if you are looking for something, ask me, I may have that rare old game that you have been looking for, or that old software your database is saved in.
Till next time.......................
Computer Gal
Thursday, January 4, 2007
ebay's Annual Fee HIKE / Raise Is In
ebay's fee hike is in. I personally don't think it is so bad this time. The store fee hike last summer was a lot worse.... for regular auctions that is. ebay Motors was hit hard this time, but auctions were raised only 5 cents. I mean I'm not happy with it, but it is better than another store increase, which hurt alot of us. Here is the link so you can read all about it.
http://www2.ebay.com/aw/core/200701.shtml#2007-01-03144839
Oh and HAPPY NEW YEAR
http://www2.ebay.com/aw/core/200701.shtml#2007-01-03144839
Oh and HAPPY NEW YEAR
Saturday, December 30, 2006
Big Crumbs Cash Back Follow-up
Hello Everyone,
Just a follow-up on my bigcrumbs account. I have earned over $70.00 so far! This is one of the best cash back programs that I have ever been a member of. You earn rebates on your purchases at many major online retailers AND those that your refer. If you have not joined bigcrumbs yet, than you are missing out on some major free cash rebates.
Some of the retailers are ebay, best buy, Dell, Disney and Target. As you can see these are major online retailers. You don't have to give out any bank or credit card information. You don't even have to give out your id numbers to these places, just log on to bigcrumbs and connect to the retailers thru their mall.
I found out about bigcrumbs on ebay's powerseller board, so you know it's good, when all the powerseller's are signing up!
Here's the link and if it does not fill in my name as the referral already, enter computergal
http://www.bigcrumbs.com/crumbs/frontpage.jsp?r=computergal
Just a follow-up on my bigcrumbs account. I have earned over $70.00 so far! This is one of the best cash back programs that I have ever been a member of. You earn rebates on your purchases at many major online retailers AND those that your refer. If you have not joined bigcrumbs yet, than you are missing out on some major free cash rebates.
Some of the retailers are ebay, best buy, Dell, Disney and Target. As you can see these are major online retailers. You don't have to give out any bank or credit card information. You don't even have to give out your id numbers to these places, just log on to bigcrumbs and connect to the retailers thru their mall.
I found out about bigcrumbs on ebay's powerseller board, so you know it's good, when all the powerseller's are signing up!
Here's the link and if it does not fill in my name as the referral already, enter computergal
http://www.bigcrumbs.com/crumbs/frontpage.jsp?r=computergal
Thursday, December 28, 2006
Troubleshooting XP Boot Up Problems
I hope everyone's holiday week is going well. Mine has been extremely busy (which is good) since I am in online retail. My ebay store has been hopping with everyone taking advantage of my new and vintage software and hardware. I have sold a bunch of Playstation 2 keyboards (see previous article below), so those are hot this year.
Well for those of you having computer problems, this article should help. This tip is on techrepublics web site, but you have to be a member to view it so I have decided to share with my readers as it is a good one. The author has a web site that you may want to view as well located here
Well for those of you having computer problems, this article should help. This tip is on techrepublics web site, but you have to be a member to view it so I have decided to share with my readers as it is a good one. The author has a web site that you may want to view as well located here
PC won't boot what can you do, well here is 10 things that may help
Use a Windows startup disk
Use Last Known Good Configuration
Use System Restore
Use Recovery Console
Fix a corrupt Boot.ini
Fix a corrupt partition boot sector
Fix a corrupt master boot record
Disable automatic restart
Restore from a backup
Perform an in-place upgrade
Ok, great, how how do you do these things?, entire PDF how to is here
For those of you that have a crashed computer at home and are able to fix it with these instructions "Who loves you, baby"
Don't forget that we have the Ultimate Boot CD available in my ebay store if you need a little more help. This CD will boot any pc you have, that is for sure!
Good luck and type at ya soon :0)
Thursday, December 21, 2006
What's Hot on ebay
Ever wonder what is hot on ebay? Well lucky for you ebay has a free report that breaks down by category what is hot at any given time. The report is in PDF format so you can save it on your computer for later viewing or to print out. You can find December's report here
http://pages.ebay.com/sellercentral/hotitems.pdf
If you are serious about selling on ebay it is important to study this report and try and choose a category that you are interested in. In order to enjoy what you are doing and to know something about what you are doing it is a good idea to pick something you are involved in already. For example if you collect Nascar items, that would be a good start to review what is hot.
The hardest part is finding the inventory at a good price so that you are able to make a profit, after paying all ebay's fees, and that is another article for sure. Ebay has hurt alot of sellers with their ever increasing fees.
I will go over the fees and store rates later, until then......
http://pages.ebay.com/sellercentral/hotitems.pdf
If you are serious about selling on ebay it is important to study this report and try and choose a category that you are interested in. In order to enjoy what you are doing and to know something about what you are doing it is a good idea to pick something you are involved in already. For example if you collect Nascar items, that would be a good start to review what is hot.
The hardest part is finding the inventory at a good price so that you are able to make a profit, after paying all ebay's fees, and that is another article for sure. Ebay has hurt alot of sellers with their ever increasing fees.
I will go over the fees and store rates later, until then......
Tuesday, December 19, 2006
Thursday, December 14, 2006
ebay Feedback Blackmail / Extortion, What to do?!
Just about anyone who sells or buys on ebay has faced "FeedBack Blackmail". Feedback blackmail / extortion is when the other party threatens you with a negative feedback unless you provide goods or services not included in the original listing. The first time someone blackmailed me with negative feedback I was shocked and down right mad! I couldn't believe it. I strive to provide 100% customer satisfaction. I always describe my product to the best of my ability. If there is a flaw, I note it and photograph it. I always ship promptly, whithin 48 hours, but usually sooner.
Usually when someone is planning on blackmailing you their emails are extremely rude and threatening. For example you mail the package the same day as winning bid, you send with delivery confirmation and return receipt. You receive the confirmation and customer's signature back and think that all is well. A day later you receive angry email from customer that they did not receive item and if refund is not sent immediately to their paypal account they will leave a negative feedback. The customer is not asking if the item has been shipped, or stating they are unhappy with the item, only that they want a full refund immediately or will leave you a negative feedback. In cases like this I always let them know that I have their signature and delivery confirmation from the USPS stating their package was received, but I would be happy to file a claim with the USPS for them and the USPS aka Government will investigate the possibility of fraud. Usually that works as no one likes to mess with the government.
Every now and then I receive an email stating "I hate to leave you a negative feedback" BUT .... I always reply if there is a problem with the item please let me know WHAT it is and I will replace or whatever is necessary. There is no need to threaten me with negative feedback. I mean if I don't respond to your issue I can see threatening, but to start off the first contact with "I'm gonna neg you" is a little unfair. Just as unfair as giving a negative without even contacting the other party first.
I can understand the buyer's frustration as I buy on ebay too. I have been ripped off as well, so I know how it feels, and that is partly why I strive to provide excellent customer service. These days it really does pay to shop with ebay sellers that have stores on ebay, as you know they will still be there tomorrow.
What to do once you have been blackmailed. Ebay's feedback extortion info page is found here
http://pages.ebay.com/help/policies/feedback-extortion.html
eBay will even remove the negative feedback under certain conditions. One way to have it removed is to check the other parties contact information. If their contact info in not correct, ebay will remove the negative. A mutual withdrawal can also be requested, where as both parties agree to remove their negative feedback. Info on both can be found here
http://pages.ebay.com/help/policies/feedback-abuse-withdrawal.html
Another way to have negative feedback removed is if the member is suspended under one account, re-registers under another. That feedback can be removed. Here is a link on other valid reasons to remove feedback.
http://pages.ebay.in/help/policies/feedback-removal.html
If you think you qualify for feedback removal, use this form to request the removal from your profile.
http://pages.ebay.in/help/contact_us/_base/index.html
There is a web site that is very useful as it list all feedback for a particular member, even if it has been removed. It is a good idea to check the person out to see if they have a habit of leaving bad feedback (many do)
http://www.toolhaus.org/
You can check all the feedback they have left for others, and feedback that has been received. It even list any that have been mutually withdrawn. A very useful tool that warrants a place in your favorites.
I hope you have found this info useful, and remember it is not the end of the world when you receive your first negative feedback.
Usually when someone is planning on blackmailing you their emails are extremely rude and threatening. For example you mail the package the same day as winning bid, you send with delivery confirmation and return receipt. You receive the confirmation and customer's signature back and think that all is well. A day later you receive angry email from customer that they did not receive item and if refund is not sent immediately to their paypal account they will leave a negative feedback. The customer is not asking if the item has been shipped, or stating they are unhappy with the item, only that they want a full refund immediately or will leave you a negative feedback. In cases like this I always let them know that I have their signature and delivery confirmation from the USPS stating their package was received, but I would be happy to file a claim with the USPS for them and the USPS aka Government will investigate the possibility of fraud. Usually that works as no one likes to mess with the government
Every now and then I receive an email stating "I hate to leave you a negative feedback" BUT .... I always reply if there is a problem with the item please let me know WHAT it is and I will replace or whatever is necessary. There is no need to threaten me with negative feedback. I mean if I don't respond to your issue I can see threatening, but to start off the first contact with "I'm gonna neg you" is a little unfair. Just as unfair as giving a negative without even contacting the other party first.
I can understand the buyer's frustration as I buy on ebay too. I have been ripped off as well, so I know how it feels, and that is partly why I strive to provide excellent customer service. These days it really does pay to shop with ebay sellers that have stores on ebay, as you know they will still be there tomorrow.
What to do once you have been blackmailed. Ebay's feedback extortion info page is found here
http://pages.ebay.com/help/policies/feedback-extortion.html
eBay will even remove the negative feedback under certain conditions. One way to have it removed is to check the other parties contact information. If their contact info in not correct, ebay will remove the negative. A mutual withdrawal can also be requested, where as both parties agree to remove their negative feedback. Info on both can be found here
http://pages.ebay.com/help/policies/feedback-abuse-withdrawal.html
Another way to have negative feedback removed is if the member is suspended under one account, re-registers under another. That feedback can be removed. Here is a link on other valid reasons to remove feedback.
http://pages.ebay.in/help/policies/feedback-removal.html
If you think you qualify for feedback removal, use this form to request the removal from your profile.
http://pages.ebay.in/help/contact_us/_base/index.html
There is a web site that is very useful as it list all feedback for a particular member, even if it has been removed. It is a good idea to check the person out to see if they have a habit of leaving bad feedback (many do)
http://www.toolhaus.org/
You can check all the feedback they have left for others, and feedback that has been received. It even list any that have been mutually withdrawn. A very useful tool that warrants a place in your favorites.
I hope you have found this info useful, and remember it is not the end of the world when you receive your first negative feedback.
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